Gukesh Dommaraju made history by becoming the youngest-ever World Chess Champion. At just 18 years, 8 months, and 14 days old, he won the 2024 World Chess Championship, beating China’s Ding Liren in the 14th game of the match held in Singapore. Gukesh’s victory marks a major milestone in his chess career, as well as for Indian chess. He became only the second Indian player to win the World Championship, following Viswanathan Anand.
A Decisive Win
The match between Gukesh and Ding Liren was intense. Game 14 seemed to be heading for another draw, which would have led to a tie-break. However, Ding made a crucial mistake by placing his rook next to his king, giving Gukesh the opportunity to capitalize. This error allowed Gukesh to secure a win without needing the tie-breaker, making him the new World Chess Champion.
Emotions Overflow
After the victory, Gukesh couldn’t contain his emotions. He was seen in tears, overwhelmed by the magnitude of his achievement. Years of hard work and dedication finally paid off. His emotional moment was captured on video and went viral on social media. It was a moment of pure joy for the young chess player and a proud moment for India.
Youngest Champion Ever
Stunning emotions as Gukesh cries after winning the World Championship title! #DingGukesh pic.twitter.com/E53h0XOCV3
— chess24 (@chess24com) December 12, 2024
Gukesh’s victory broke a record that had stood for almost 40 years. He surpassed the legendary Garry Kasparov, who won the title at the age of 22 years, 6 months, and 27 days in 1985. Gukesh now holds the record for the youngest World Chess Champion ever.
Here’s a list of the youngest World Chess Champions in history:
| Player | Age at Winning | Year |
|---|---|---|
| D Gukesh | 18 years, 8 months, 14 days | December 12, 2024 |
| Garry Kasparov | 22 years, 6 months, 27 days | November 9, 1985 |
| Magnus Carlsen | 22 years, 11 months, 24 days | November 23, 2013 |
| Mikhail Tal | 23 years, 5 months, 28 days | May 7, 1960 |
| Anatoly Karpov | 23 years, 10 months, 11 days | April 3, 1975 |
| Vladimir Kramnik | 25 years, 4 months, 10 days | November 4, 2000 |
| Emanuel Lasker | 25 years, 5 months, 2 days | May 26, 1894 |
India’s Chess Success
Gukesh’s victory is a proud moment for India. He became the second Indian to win the World Chess Championship, following in the footsteps of Viswanathan Anand, who won the title four times. Gukesh’s achievement highlights the rise of Indian chess on the global stage.
Gukesh’s Journey to Victory
Gukesh’s road to becoming the World Champion was not easy. He lost the first game of the final but made a strong comeback in Game 3, leveling the score. His determination and focus helped him stay in the competition until the final Game 14, where he clinched the title.
Gukesh qualified for the 2024 World Chess Championship after winning the Candidates Tournament earlier in the year. This win gave him the chance to face Ding Liren, who was the defending champion after winning the 2023 title.
The Final Match
The 14th and final game between Ding Liren and Gukesh was full of tension. Below are some of the key moves from the match:
| Move | White (Ding Liren) | Black (D Gukesh) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Nf3 | d5 |
| 2 | g3 | c5 |
| 3 | Bg2 | Nc6 |
| 4 | d4 | e6 |
| 5 | O-O | cxd4 |
| 6 | Nxd4 | Nge7 |
| 7 | c4 | Nxd4 |
| 8 | Qxd4 | Nc6 |
| 9 | Qd1 | d4 |
| 10 | e3 | bc5 |
| 11 | exd4 | Bxd4 |
| 12 | Nc3 | O-O |
The match continued to be a fierce back-and-forth battle. Gukesh kept his focus, and after 55 moves, Ding made a critical mistake that cost him the game. Gukesh seized the opportunity and ended the match with a victorious move.
Conclusion
D Gukesh’s victory is an inspiring moment for young chess players around the world. At 18, he has shown that dedication, hard work, and focus can lead to incredible success. His win not only breaks records but also adds to India’s growing legacy in chess. As the youngest World Chess Champion, Gukesh’s journey has just begun, and the chess world will be watching closely to see what he achieves next.
Also Read: Top 25 Indian Chess Players Of Current Times
